Working With Compressed Air Tools

www.safetygoodwe.com 

SAFETY TALK

WORKING WITH COMPRESSED AIR TOOLS

1. See that the hose is clear of dirt or moisture before starting work.
2. Ensure that tools are regularly maintained and serviced and matching connections are used.
3. See that, where applicable, the proper protective guard is correctly fitted before use.
4. Always use attachments which are correct for the speed of the tool
5. When using paving breakers, clay spades etc. Always check your hose connection before starting work.
6. Wear protective footwear when using paving breakers and stand with feet apart.
7. Operators of air cutting, drilling or impact breaking tools must wear eye protectors and are advised to use ear protectors also.
8. Before disconnecting any air tool, turn off the compressed air supply on the main air pipe to which your air hose is connected. The air should be exhausted in the line at the tool end.
9. The air tool control lever should be released before moving the tool to another piece of work.
10. The changing of points (jackhammer) should be undertaken with the tool in a horizontal position. Do uses not blunt points.
11. Ensure that points (jackhammer) are securely seated before operating tool.
12. In the case of air operated cutting wheels and discs, only operators in possession of a certificate of training are permitted to change and abrasive wheel or disc
13. Report all defects immediately.
14. Keep away all persons not directly involved in the activity, particularly children and public.
15. Whip checks must be used on all tools and line connections to prevent the hose from flailing if it becomes disconnected.
16. When changing Air tools always close the air down by the valve never kink the hose.
17. Do not leave hoses lying around for others to trip over.
18. Never direct compressed air at yourself or any other person.

Pneumatic tools

1. Pneumatic tools must be inspected for proper operation before use, ّincluding
• Safety clips in place to prevent the tool from ejecting out of the holder. 
• Air hose connections are secured/wired together.
• The safety trigger automatically shuts off when release.
• The tool is not leaking internally.
2. NEVER use other than air as Oxygen or Nitrogen to power pneumatic tools 
3. Air tools can be very noisy. Ear plugs or ear muffs should be worn when using pneumatic tools. ّ
4. Eye protection is also very important when using air tools, especially grinders, chipping devices, wire brushes, etc. Wear goggles and face shield when using air tools. 
5. Do not pick up, or lower air tools by the air hose. Use a rope, tied to the tool to raise and lower pneumatic tools.

CARTRIDGE HAMMERS OR RIVET GUNS

 Only to be used by trained persons issued with a certificate

1. Read maker’s instructions carefully before using gun.
2. Before handling gun make sure it is NOT LOADED.
3. Load gun with barrel pointing in safe position - away from you.
4. Never place your hand over the end of the barrel.
5. Never walk around with a loaded gun - load on site.
6. Check material into which bolt is to be fired
7. Allow at least 3” from edges of concrete or brickwork.
8. Hold gun at right angles to the job when firing.
9. Wear goggles when using the gun.
10. In the event of a misfire wait a minute before unloading.
11. Keep the gun clean and well oiled.
12. Never leave gun loaded when not in use.
13. Return all unspent cartridges to the site offices/stores when work is completed. 
14. NEVER leave unspent cartridges on site. They must be accounted for.